Nutrition
Tanzania made significant progress in improving nutrition among children under 5 years of age.
Context
Children, adolescents, and women bear the triple burden of malnutrition: undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and overweight and obesity. Tanzania is making progress in reducing the prevalence of stunting among children under five and reducing the rate of anaemia in women of reproductive age; however, more action is needed to accelerate progress to reach the SDGs targets. Nearly one-third of children under 5 are stunted, and micronutrient deficiencies remain a public health concern. Overweight and obesity are an emerging problem, especially among adolescent girls and women. The children and adolescents of today will soon become adults in large numbers. Healthy, well-nourished children and adolescents—able to learn, grow, and reach their potential—will enable Tanzania to turn its rapid population growth into a demographic dividend as they engage in the economy of the future and participate meaningfully in society.
UNICEF in action
UNICEF is committed to addressing the triple burden of malnutrition by strengthening health, education, food, and social protection systems at all levels, with the goal to improve behaviours, increase access to quality services and promote optimal nutrition, growth, and development practices. Advocating for domestic funding, improving data quality, and enhancing human resources for nutrition are key priorities. UNICEF reinforces multisectoral coordination and governance, empowers communities and women, and promotes male involvement. UNICEF focuses on maternal and child feeding practices, water, sanitation, early childhood development, and healthcare-seeking behaviours.